Events Listed As Open to the Public

This exhibition highlights faculty and staff creativity across the various disciplines in the School of Art, including animation, ceramics, drawing, game art and design, glass, graphic design, illustration, metals + jewelry, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and video and new media. Gallery talk and reception on October 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. This exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.

This year the Archives and Special Collections put on a display of Steve Bell’s collection. "From the Newsroom to the Classroom: The Life and Lessons of Professor Steve Bell” at the Archives and Special Collections is more than a tribute, it’s a living archive of a journalist whose life and career mirrored the most pivotal moments in American history. The display follows his life through the items Bell and his family donated to the archives and was curated by his granddaughter, Samantha Politinsky, who is the current E. Ruth Dunning Graduate Assistant for the Archives and Special Collections. The exhibit’s first cases trace Bell’s origins, a small-town football player from Iowa who married his high school sweetheart who happened to have a knack for public speaking. His first major story was in Omaha, Nebraska where his Emmy-winning documentary The Outsiders spotlighted high school dropouts. He soon left Omaha to start reporting from New York and Washington.

Take an imaginary trip from Sesame Street to the moon, find shapes in the sky, and learn about the North Star in this cross-cultural adventure with Big Bird, Elmo, and their friend Hu Hu Zhu from China. Perfect for families and groups with pre-K through 1st grade learners; all ages are welcome.

Enjoy choir recitals conducted by our graduate students. This event is free and open to the public.

This recital will feature the flute students of Mihoko Watanabe. This event is free and open to the public.

Harvest Fest hosted by AMG

Come for inspiring performances, insightful teaching, and thought-provoking discussions featuring Ball State flute studio and guest artist Daniel Velasco!

Come for inspiring performances, insightful teaching, and thought-provoking discussions featuring Ball State faculty and students!

Take an imaginary trip from Sesame Street to the moon, find shapes in the sky, and learn about the North Star in this cross-cultural adventure with Big Bird, Elmo, and their friend Hu Hu Zhu from China. Perfect for families and groups with pre-K through 1st grade learners; all ages are welcome.

Narrated by David Tennant, explore exactly what astronomers do to answer the questions of the Universe, featuring info on NASA's James Webb Space Telescope and the Large Hadron Collider. Most suitable for adults and ages 8+; all ages welcome.

Come hear Ball State's wonderfully talented piano faculty perform for Piano Day!

From icy moons to craters, discover where water hides in our solar system—and what it means for life on Earth. Most suitable for adults and ages 10+; all ages welcome.

Join us in supporting the Youth Symphony Orchestras of East Central Indiana during this performance and silent auction!

Alexandria McClinton is a cello student of Peter Opie. This event is free and open to the public.

Izzy Fuentes is an oboe student of Lisa Kozenko. This event is free and open to the public.

Join the Paul W. Parkison Department of Accounting in recognizing incredible alumni and friends of the department at its Fifteenth Annual Accounting Alumni Awards.

This recital will feature the violin students of Yu-Fang Chen. This event is free and open to the public.

This exhibition highlights faculty and staff creativity across the various disciplines in the School of Art, including animation, ceramics, drawing, game art and design, glass, graphic design, illustration, metals + jewelry, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and video and new media. Gallery talk and reception on October 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. This exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.

Christiana Mann is a faculty member at Ball State University’s Miller College of Business, where she teaches in the Department of Applied Business Studies with a focus on hospitality, innovation, and leadership. With more than 40 years of experience in the food service industry, she brings a wealth of real-world expertise into the classroom to prepare the next generation of business and hospitality leaders.In addition to her academic role, Christiana is a seasoned entrepreneur and co-owner of Three Bears Concessions and proprietor of The Culinary Cottage, ventures that showcase her passion for food, service, and community. Her diverse career has spanned nearly every corner of the industry — from retail and brick-and-mortar establishments to mobile, temporary, and seasonal operations. She has also managed large-scale contracts with state parks and universities and has unique insight from her work in public health enforcement with federal, state, and local health departments.Known for blending practical industry knowledge with an innovative teaching style, Christiana is dedicated to helping students and colleagues connect theory to practice.

Theodore Roosevelt is remembered as a champion of the American West and one of his legacies is the expansion of the National Park System. Roosevelt’s interest in the west was formed in his early years, including time spent living in North Dakota Badlands in his 20s. This presentation will describe TR’s western travels and how they shaped his life and political career.

See our talented jazz combos perform in Hahn Hall! Free and open to the public.

This exhibition highlights faculty and staff creativity across the various disciplines in the School of Art, including animation, ceramics, drawing, game art and design, glass, graphic design, illustration, metals + jewelry, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and video and new media. Gallery talk and reception on October 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. This exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.

Celebrate GIS Day with Maps Amoré! Come to the GRMC in Bracken Library on Wednesday, November 19th from 10 am – 1 pm to explore how various professional groups are using geographic information systems (GIS) to inform their work and inform the public. Explore professional examples of GIS work focused on art, biology, conservation, criminal justice, ecology, economic development, geoscience, local to federal governments, history, journalism, ornithology, public health, and urban planning.

Ball State University’s Entrepreneurship Center and the Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute are collaborating to bring together campus and community members to showcase local entrepreneurial activity.This event celebrates innovation by showcasing groundbreaking ideas and high-impact programs designed to empower the next generation of change-makers.

Late, a Cowboy Song follows Mary, a woman caught between convention and possibility, as she falls for Red, a free-spirited lady cowboy who offers her a taste of freedom. It’s a tender, unconventional love story about identity, motherhood, and the courage to seek a life beyond the ordinary. Tickets available at the College of Fine Arts Box Office starting August 1.

7:30 p.m. | Emens Auditorium

Ball State's bands present a series of concerts each year featuring a wide range of music. Tickets available for purchase in person or online through the College of Fine Arts Box Office starting August 1. This concert will also be livestreamed.

This exhibition highlights faculty and staff creativity across the various disciplines in the School of Art, including animation, ceramics, drawing, game art and design, glass, graphic design, illustration, metals + jewelry, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and video and new media. Gallery talk and reception on October 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. This exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.

Celebrate National Geography Awareness Week with the Paul W. Stout Map Collection in the Bracken Library Lobby on Thursday, November 20 from 10 am to 1 pm. Play geography-related games and activities, and you could win one of our fabulous prizes.

Although the third in the line of James Payne’s, he tops the charts at number 1 when it comes to his skills and experience in creating world class guest experiences. He developed fundamentals in Marketing and Public Relations from Ball State University, as well as Adult Training and Consulting from North Carolina State University. He harnessed veteran customer service skills acquired at Disney Institute Training. He works around people, with people, and for people. He earned a Hospitality Certification from IUPUI, venturing into positions with small and large organizations alike. In February 2024, he served as lead concierge to the NBA All-Star game and host committee. In February 2011, he worked as the Chief Concierge and Hospitality Training Specialist during Super Bowl XLVI in Indianapolis. James has developed a trained team of hospitality professionals to create memorable Game Day/Fan Experiences for the Indianapolis Colts, resulting in club and suite renewals.

Ann will teach simplified techniques for creating a beautiful holiday watercolor masterpiece from start to finish. Her professional experience enables her to teach novices as well as advanced painters in the same setting. You will have the opportunity to display your artwork at the Center’s Holiday Open House on December 5-6.

In order to engage your team, you need to tap into each person’s unique creative perspective. This drives collaboration and proactive problem solving leading to operational efficiencies, new markets, and a culture that is more reactive to market changes. In this session, we will explore skills and behaviors that encourage engagement and creative collaboration.

This recital will feature the students of Lori Rhoden. This event is free and open to the public.

Late, a Cowboy Song follows Mary, a woman caught between convention and possibility, as she falls for Red, a free-spirited lady cowboy who offers her a taste of freedom. It’s a tender, unconventional love story about identity, motherhood, and the courage to seek a life beyond the ordinary. Tickets available at the College of Fine Arts Box Office starting August 1.

This recital will feature the tuba and euphonium students of Matthew Lyon. This event is free and open to the public.

Join local female professional groups and entrepreneurs for a time of networking and learning.

This exhibition highlights faculty and staff creativity across the various disciplines in the School of Art, including animation, ceramics, drawing, game art and design, glass, graphic design, illustration, metals + jewelry, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and video and new media. Gallery talk and reception on October 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. This exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.

Enjoy a midday break with mindfulness meditation in the DOMA galleries.

Take an imaginary trip from Sesame Street to the moon, find shapes in the sky, and learn about the North Star in this cross-cultural adventure with Big Bird, Elmo, and their friend Hu Hu Zhu from China. Perfect for families and groups with pre-K through 1st grade learners; all ages are welcome.

This recital will feature the piano students of Lori Rhoden. This event is free and open to the public.

From icy moons to craters, discover where water hides in our solar system—and what it means for life on Earth. Most suitable for adults and ages 10+; all ages welcome.

7:30 p.m. | Pruis Hall

Late, a Cowboy Song follows Mary, a woman caught between convention and possibility, as she falls for Red, a free-spirited lady cowboy who offers her a taste of freedom. It’s a tender, unconventional love story about identity, motherhood, and the courage to seek a life beyond the ordinary. Tickets available at the College of Fine Arts Box Office starting August 1.

This recital will feature the cello students of Peter Opie. This event is free and open to the public.

Join a free public tour of works selected by a DOMA gallery guide.

After Tyler Evans, a young Black man, is killed by a police officer, his ghost lingers—desperate to be remembered for his life, not just his death. This moving contemporary drama explores love, loss, and the personal and political weight of remembrance. Tickets available through the College of Fine Arts Box Office starting August 1.

Take an imaginary trip from Sesame Street to the moon, find shapes in the sky, and learn about the North Star in this cross-cultural adventure with Big Bird, Elmo, and their friend Hu Hu Zhu from China. Perfect for families and groups with pre-K through 1st grade learners; all ages are welcome.

Narrated by David Tennant, explore exactly what astronomers do to answer the questions of the Universe, featuring info on NASA's James Webb Space Telescope and the Large Hadron Collider. Most suitable for adults and ages 8+; all ages welcome.

This recital has been canceled.

From icy moons to craters, discover where water hides in our solar system—and what it means for life on Earth. Most suitable for adults and ages 10+; all ages welcome.

Late, a Cowboy Song follows Mary, a woman caught between convention and possibility, as she falls for Red, a free-spirited lady cowboy who offers her a taste of freedom. It’s a tender, unconventional love story about identity, motherhood, and the courage to seek a life beyond the ordinary. Tickets available at the College of Fine Arts Box Office starting August 1.

Come see Ball State Opera Theatre's fall production of The Elixir of Love in Sursa Performance Hall. Tickets available through the College of Fine Arts Box Office.

Come for inspiring performances, insightful teaching, and thought-provoking discussions featuring Ball State faculty and students!

Come see Ball State Opera Theatre's fall production of The Elixir of Love in Sursa Performance Hall. Tickets available through the College of Fine Arts Box Office.

Late, a Cowboy Song follows Mary, a woman caught between convention and possibility, as she falls for Red, a free-spirited lady cowboy who offers her a taste of freedom. It’s a tender, unconventional love story about identity, motherhood, and the courage to seek a life beyond the ordinary. Tickets available at the College of Fine Arts Box Office starting August 1.

Qionggu Chen is a voice of Mei Zhong. This event is free and open to the public.

Join your fellow Lifelong Learners for our annual holiday get-together.

Ball State's Wind Ensemble presents a series of concerts each year featuring a wide range of music. Tickets available for purchase in person or online through the College of Fine Arts Box Office starting August 1. This concert will also be livestreamed.

Graduating seniors earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art will showcase their work in a range of media, including ceramics, drawing, glass, metals and jewelry, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and video and new media. Come see what our seniors' amazing work! Join us for the Exhibition Reception and Gallery Talk on December 12, 4 to 6 p.m. Exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.

Dr. Kaufman's presentation will be on the subject of his recently published scholarly monography, "Christmastime Texts and the Popularity of the Robin Hood Tradition".

This recital will feature string faculty and students. This event is free and open to the public.

For generations, holiday shopping in Muncie was more than a seasonal task—it was an experience filled with tradition, excitement, and community spirit. Downtown once sparkled with festive lights, and families crowded the sidewalks to admire elaborate window displays at Ball Stores and other local retail establishments. This program explores the history and experiences of holiday shopping in the “Magic City” through the combined resources of the Ball State University Libraries, Delaware County Historical Society, and the Muncie Public Library. | No charge, refreshments served after presentation

For generations, holiday shopping in Muncie was more than a seasonal task—it was an experience filled with tradition, excitement, and community spirit. Downtown once sparkled with festive lights, and families crowded the sidewalks to admire elaborate window displays at Ball Stores and other local retail establishments. This program explores the history and experiences of holiday shopping in the “Magic City” through the combined resources of the Ball State University Libraries, Delaware County Historical Society, and the Muncie Public Library. Hot cocoa and cookies will be served.

Take a study paws and connect with a librarian one of our partners to get help with your final projects and unwind with some dogs!

Graduating seniors earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art will showcase their work in a range of media, including ceramics, drawing, glass, metals and jewelry, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and video and new media. Come see what our seniors' amazing work! Join us for the Exhibition Reception and Gallery Talk on December 12, 4 to 6 p.m. Exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.

Graduating seniors earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art will showcase their work in a range of media, including ceramics, drawing, glass, metals and jewelry, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and video and new media. Come see what our seniors' amazing work! Join us for the Exhibition Reception and Gallery Talk on December 12, 4 to 6 p.m. Exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.

Enjoy a midday break with mindfulness meditation in the DOMA galleries.

Join us for a program that explores possible natural explanations for the Star of Bethlehem—from a brilliant exploding star to a passing comet and more. Suitable for all ages 10+; all ages are welcome.

Join us for a magical two-day event nestled within Minnetrista's Enchanted Luminaria Walk. Explore the historic Ball family home adorned with festive décor, serenaded by live musicians, and dazzled by local artisans.Experience the heartwarming tradition as members of our community transform trees and rooms into enchanting displays. It's a celebration of the Ball family's legacy and their enduring impact on our community.

Join us for a program that explores possible natural explanations for the Star of Bethlehem—from a brilliant exploding star to a passing comet and more. Suitable for all ages 10+; all ages are welcome.

This recital will feature the harp students of Joanne King. This event is free and open to the public.

Xue Bai is a piano of James Helton. This event is free and open to the public.

Coyote’s many misconceptions about Earth and its neighbors spark curiosity and lead viewers to explore how the Earth, Moon, and Sun work together as a system, distinguishing myth from science. Best suited for families and groups with kids ages 8+; all ages are welcome.

Join us for a program that explores possible natural explanations for the Star of Bethlehem—from a brilliant exploding star to a passing comet and more. Suitable for all ages 10+; all ages are welcome.

Join us for a magical two-day event nestled within Minnetrista's Enchanted Luminaria Walk. Explore the historic Ball family home adorned with festive décor, serenaded by live musicians, and dazzled by local artisans.Experience the heartwarming tradition as members of our community transform trees and rooms into enchanting displays. It's a celebration of the Ball family's legacy and their enduring impact on our community.

Celebrate the holiday season with a diverse array of seasonal activities throughout Ball State University’s campus and Minnetrista as they host their annual Holiday Arts & Culture Night and Enchanted Luminaria Walk on Saturday, December 6.

Presented by Ball State’s Integrated Cultural Committee, the free festive event shines the holiday spotlight on many arts and culture spots along the campus Cultural Corridor. Enjoy activities, live performances, and demonstrations at the David Owsley Museum of Art, Emens Auditorium, Rinard Orchid Greenhouse, Sursa Performance Hall, the Nature Center, Christy Woods, the Glick Center for Glass, and the Charles W. Brown Planetarium!

Join us for a program that explores possible natural explanations for the Star of Bethlehem—from a brilliant exploding star to a passing comet and more. Suitable for all ages 10+; all ages are welcome.

Bring the whole family on a wild, whimsical ride through the heart of childhood dreams as this classic holiday tale returns to the stage as you've never seen it before. Tickets available through the Emens Auditorium Box Office.

7:30 p.m. | Emens Auditorium

Darlene Tsai is a piano of James Helton. This event is free and open to the public.

This recital will feature the trombone students of Chris Van Hof. This event is free and open to the public.

1:00 p.m. | Emens Auditorium

Bring the whole family on a wild, whimsical ride through the heart of childhood dreams as this classic holiday tale returns to the stage as you've never seen it before. Tickets available through the Emens Auditorium Box Office.

Five choirs combine to surround the audience in a feast for the eyes, the ears, and the heart. Tickets available for purchase in person or online through the College of Fine Arts Box Office starting August 1. The afternoon (3 p.m.) performance will also be available as a livestream.

Graduating seniors earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art will showcase their work in a range of media, including ceramics, drawing, glass, metals and jewelry, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and video and new media. Come see what our seniors' amazing work! Join us for the Exhibition Reception and Gallery Talk on December 12, 4 to 6 p.m. Exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.

Graduating seniors earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art will showcase their work in a range of media, including ceramics, drawing, glass, metals and jewelry, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and video and new media. Come see what our seniors' amazing work! Join us for the Exhibition Reception and Gallery Talk on December 12, 4 to 6 p.m. Exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.

Graduating seniors earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art will showcase their work in a range of media, including ceramics, drawing, glass, metals and jewelry, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and video and new media. Come see what our seniors' amazing work! Join us for the Exhibition Reception and Gallery Talk on December 12, 4 to 6 p.m. Exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.

Graduating seniors earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art will showcase their work in a range of media, including ceramics, drawing, glass, metals and jewelry, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and video and new media. Come see what our seniors' amazing work! Join us for the Exhibition Reception and Gallery Talk on December 12, 4 to 6 p.m. Exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.

Join us for a program that explores possible natural explanations for the Star of Bethlehem—from a brilliant exploding star to a passing comet and more. Suitable for all ages 10+; all ages are welcome.

Graduating seniors earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art will showcase their work in a range of media, including ceramics, drawing, glass, metals and jewelry, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and video and new media. Come see what our seniors' amazing work! Join us for the Exhibition Reception and Gallery Talk on December 12, 4 to 6 p.m. Exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.

Coyote’s many misconceptions about Earth and its neighbors spark curiosity and lead viewers to explore how the Earth, Moon, and Sun work together as a system, distinguishing myth from science. Best suited for families and groups with kids ages 8+; all ages are welcome.

Join us for a program that explores possible natural explanations for the Star of Bethlehem—from a brilliant exploding star to a passing comet and more. Suitable for all ages 10+; all ages are welcome.

Join us for a talk from Jeffrey Gibson, the first Indigenous artist to represent the United States with a solo presentation in the national pavilion. Free and open to the public.

The Ball State Opera Theatre program presents their ninth annual Opera Gala. The evening will feature several opera students as well as voice faculty from the School of Music. Tickets will be available through the College of Fine Arts Box Office.

The Faculty Artist Series features School of Music faculty sharing their talent and passion for music with the campus and community. Program to be announced. Free and open to the public with livestream available.

Enbee is a newbie in a world where they must navigate the unfamiliar territory of the different Ball States: sport, sex, and fancy ‘be who you are’ dress dance. Chaos ensues and Enbee tries to understand what the hell is going on. Tickets available through the College of Fine Arts Box Office.

Ball State's Wind Ensemble presents a series of concerts each year featuring a wide range of music. Tickets available for purchase in person or online through the College of Fine Arts Box Office starting August 1. This concert will also be livestreamed.

7:30 p.m. | Pruis Hall

Explore the architecture of Ball State University, while learning about history-making women who lived, worked, learned and played within the wall of these iconic buildings. Wine and appetizers will be served.

The Ball State Campus Band is a traditional concert band that provides an opportunity for music and non-music majors to participate on a limited rehearsal and performance schedule. Tickets available for purchase in person or online through the College of Fine Arts Box Office starting August 1. This concert will also be livestreamed.

The Miller College of Business 21st Annual Alumni Awards is a highly anticipated event that brings together alumni. Join us on Friday, April 17, 2026 at the Alumni Center for an exciting celebration, recognition, and networking day.

Under the direction of Andrew Crow and Kerry Glann, the Ball State Choirs present a series of concerts each year featuring a wide range of music from around the world and across the centuries. Tickets available for purchase in person or online through the College of Fine Arts Box Office starting August 1. This concert will also be livestreamed.

Enjoy a concert of standard jazz favorites and original compositions with the Ball State Jazz Ensembles under the direction of Mark Buselli. Program to be announced. Tickets available for purchase in person or online through the College of Fine Arts Box Office starting August 1. This concert will also be livestreamed.

7:30 p.m. | Pruis Hall

Six spellers enter; one speller leaves a champion! At least the losers get a juice box. Follow along as an eclectic group of six mid-pubescents vie for the spelling championship of a lifetime. Tickets available through the College of Fine Arts Box Office.

Ball State's Wind Ensemble presents a series of concerts each year featuring a wide range of music. Tickets available for purchase in person or online through the College of Fine Arts Box Office starting August 1. This concert will also be livestreamed.

Six spellers enter; one speller leaves a champion! At least the losers get a juice box. Follow along as an eclectic group of six mid-pubescents vie for the spelling championship of a lifetime. Tickets available through the College of Fine Arts Box Office.

Under the direction of Andrew Crow and Kerry Glann, the Ball State Choirs present a series of concerts each year featuring a wide range of music from around the world and across the centuries. Tickets available for purchase in person or online through the College of Fine Arts Box Office starting August 1. This concert will also be livestreamed.

Six spellers enter; one speller leaves a champion! At least the losers get a juice box. Follow along as an eclectic group of six mid-pubescents vie for the spelling championship of a lifetime. Tickets available through the College of Fine Arts Box Office.